Vol. 5, Issue 3 October – December 2022 University of Technology, Jamaica Graduating Class Urged to Pursue Lifelong Learning to Compete in the Global Economy Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Mr. Lloyd Carney, Chancellor, delivers his welcome address at the UTech, Jamaica Graduation ceremony held Friday, November 11, 2022 at the National Arena. University of Technology, Jamaica celebrated its Graduating Class of 2022 at the Ceremony for the Presentation of Graduates held November 11, 2022, at the National Arena, Kingston. Over a thousand graduates qualified to receive terminal, master’s and undergraduate degrees, associate degrees, diplomas and certificates in a variety of disciplines. Noting that the 2022 ceremony was the first in-person graduation in the last two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, newly appointed Chancellor, Mr. Lloyd Carney, in his welcome, expressed “today’s celebration marks part of our forward march into the ‘new normal,’ armed with many lessons learnt and many challenges conquered through perseverance, determination, and resilience.” He urged graduates to “never stop learning”, emphasizing that “higher education training and continuing education are imperatives if we are to ensure that our citizens can compete in the global economy,” adding, “you’re not going to stand still if you stop learning, you’re actually going to fall behind.” The Chancellor also counselled graduates to value their degrees and to put them to good use “building fulfilling careers, healthy families and a healthy nation.” He also joined graduates in expressing thanks to the University’s administration, the University Community, and immediate and extended families of graduates for “sacrificing to make this day a reality.” Professor Colin Gyles, CD, Acting President, also lauded graduates for “putting in the hard work, persevering diligently and emerging successful today to receive your well-earned certification.” Noting that the perseverance, resilience and success of the Graduating Class of 2022 are an inspiration to others. Professor Gyles specially recognized the achievements of Deaf graduates Celine Lobban from the Faculty of Engineering and Computing and Ms. Amakeda Wallen of the College of Business and Management, who overcame the odds to receive their Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Information Systems and Bachelor of Business Administration in General Management, International Business degrees respectively. - Chancellor Cont’d on page 3
Editorial Team Executive Editor Hector Wheeler Editor/Writer Michelle Beckford Editorial Assistant/Writer Jolyn Gayle Photography IMS, Calvin McKain Library Corporate Communications Unit Design & Layout Ian Beckford OCT - DEC 2022 INSIDE THIS ISSUE UTech, Jamaica Voices Voices Magazine is a publication of the Corporate Communications Unit, University of Technology, Jamaica. Please send comments, feedback and news items to: The Editor Michelle A. Beckford Corporate Communications Unit Advancement Division University of Technology, Jamaica 237 Old Hope Road Kingston, Jamaica Tel: (876) 970-5299 Fax: (876) 970-2225 Ext: 2299/2888 Email: corporatecomm@utech.edu.jm/mbeckford@utech.edu.jm Website: www.utechjamaica.edu.jm Vol. 5, Issue 3 Inaugural Merline Holt Scholarship Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica COHS Celebrates High Achievers at Annual Awards Ceremony 13 9 BACAT Students Shine at JCDC Short Film Competition 12 Student Voices 10
3 October – December 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica The University conferred Honorary Degrees on eminent Jamaicans, Mr. Alfrico Adams, distinguished engineer who received the Doctor of Technology, Honoris Causa and Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie, CD, esteemed medical officer and physician who was awarded the Doctor of Medicine, Honoris Causa. The Edward Seaga Award, which is presented to the student with the highest overall GPA in the graduating cohort, was awarded to First Class Honours graduate, Ms. Shanya Connell who earned the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Faculty of Engineering and Computing. The Award which is being presented for the fourth year in memory of former Prime Minister and Chancellor, The Most Honourable Edward Seaga, ON, PC is in acknowledgement of his outstanding national service and contributions to the University and to Jamaica. Cont’d from page 1...Graduating Class Urged to Pursue Lifelong Learning to Compete in the Global Economy Honorary Graduates High Achievers Edward Seaga Award UTech, Jamaica Chancellor Mr. Lloyd Carney (left) adjusts the tassels of Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie, CD, during her conferment of the Doctor of Medicine, Honoris Causa. First Class Honours graduate Shanya Connell, recipient of the Edward Seaga Award celebrates receipt of her prestigious academic award with Chancellor, Mr. Lloyd Carney (left) and Professor Colin Gyles, CD, Acting President. The Edward Seaga Award is presented annually to the student with the highest overall GPA in the graduating cohort. Engineer Alfrico Adams (right) prepares to sign the Register of Honorary Graduates following his conferment of the Doctor of Technology, Honoris Causa by Chancellor Mr. Lloyd Carney. Cont’d on page 4
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | October – December 2022 4 The President’s Honour Roll is comprised of students who have achieved the most outstanding academic performance by attaining qualifications of a grade ‘A’ and GPA of 3.80 - 4.00. In addition, students must be in good standing with the University and must have completed 12 credits per semester. This year, the award was presented to ten students. President’s Honour Roll Overcoming the Odds Professor Colin Gyles, CD, Acting President presented the President’s Pin to graduates who fulfilled the requirement for the President’s Honour Roll with a grade ‘A’ and a GPA of 3.80 and above. Accepting their awards (from left) Melissa Grant-Lawson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Trudy-Ann McLean, Bachelor of Science in Surveying and Geographic Information Sciences, Faculty of The Built Environment, Ruthanne McClymont, Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Computing. Gregory Woolery, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Faculty of Engineering and Computing, Shanya Connell, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Faculty of Engineering and Computing, James Edwards, Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance - Economics, College of Business and Management, Adam Vernon, Bachelor of Science in Accounting, College of Business and Management. Chancellor, Mr. Lloyd Carney presents Deaf UTech, Jamaica graduates Amakeda Wallen (left) and Celine Lobban with their degrees. Amakeda earned the Bachelor of Business Administration in General Management, International Business while Celine was awarded the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Information Systems. Cont’d on page 5
5 October – December 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica The Office of Quality Assurance (OQA), in partnership with College of Health Sciences (COHS), hosted the inaugural Quality Assurance Conference, on November 17, 2022, in celebration of World Quality Day. Themed “Engendering a Culture of Quality: Everybody’s Business”, the Conference followed the launch of the Quality Policy in August, 2022, which “provides guidelines for the development and implementation of a Quality Management System in order to enhance quality across all areas of operation within the University.” The Conference was convened by the OQA team, led by Dr. Janet Campbell Shelly, Acting Associate Vice President, Quality Assurance, who noted its thrust “to stimulate widespread interest and engagement in the quality agenda of UTech, Jamaica.” The day’s activities included a panel discussion and research presentations aimed at engaging members of the University Community in understanding their role in ensuring quality at the University, encouraging the application of quality assurance principles and actions in all transactions, and stimulating efforts to achieve and maintain quality standards. Professor Colin Gyles, CD, Acting President, in emphasizing that all members of the University Community have a role to play in quality assurance, highlighted the role of quality in the award of Institutional Accreditation to the University in 2018, and called on staff, members of faculty and students to “work together in our commitment to improving and sustaining a culture of quality in all operational areas at UTech, Jamaica.” Keynote speaker, Mrs. Venessa Buchanan-Williams, Examinations Officer, Council of Community Colleges of Jamaica (CCCJ), in her presentation noted that quality standards are usually associated with manufacturing companies, “but we are now in the era where educators and educational institutions are singing the song of quality and are proving it.” Encouraging widespread adoption of quality standards across UTech, Jamaica, Mrs. Buchanan-Williams highlighted that “customer satisfaction is key in creating a quality culture and being able to maintain the business, and in this case, the business of education.” She called on the University Community to invest in quality, Inaugural Quality Assurance Conference Among the graduating Class of 2022 were four PhD graduates from the Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies and from the Faculty of Engineering and Computing. Doctoral Graduates Officers of the University share a photo with Doctoral graduates during the graduation ceremony. From left are Chancellor Mr. Lloyd Carney, Acting President Professor Colin Gyles, CD, Dr. Balvin Thorpe (Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering), Dr. Greg-Louis Austin and Dr. Courtney Garrick (Doctor of Philosophy in Education Leadership and Management), Dr. Craig McNally (Doctor of Philosophy in Education Leadership and Management) and Vice President and University Registrar Miss. Marion Brown. no matter the cost, to “speak the same language” with regard to quality controls and adherence to standards, and to continue to work together to achieve a culture of quality.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | October – December 2022 6 The Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC), on December 9, 2022, announced plans to achieve the quality management system - ISO9001: 2015 Certification, at a launch ceremony held at the FENC Conference Room, Papine Campus. ISO 9001:2015 is a worldwide standard that sets requirements for a strong Quality Management System. It details specific processes, procedures and activities that organizations must create, implement, maintain and improve in order to successfully manage making products or delivering services. Professor Sean Thorpe, Dean, FENC explained to the gathering of members of academic and administrative staff from across Colleges and Faculties, that the impetus to obtain ISO9001 certification is being pursued against the background of the UTech, Jamaica Quality Policy which sets out metrices for how Colleges and Faculties at the University should be managing their teaching and learning processes in the complete life cycle from student enrolment to graduation. Consistent with this thrust for strengthening of quality outcomes, the Dean noted that “our ambition in the Faculty of Engineering and Computing is to be measured by world standards,” pointing out that “the ISO9001: 2015 revision is one of the world’s leading standards and a good benchmark for us as an academic institution.” He emphasised that in addition to ensuring that FENC standards are on par with world class standards for academic institutions, the ISO9001 certification will also mean greater market competitiveness and global recognition of the Faculty’s programmes of study. Professor Thorpe also pointed out that many companies in Jamaica have sought to realign their businesses to ensure ISO9001 standard is implemented. Anticipating that the Faculty of Engineering and Computing’s preparation for application for ISO9001 certification will be rolled out over the next 12 -18 months, Professor Thorpe explained that “the Faculty has decided to do what we have termed a proof of concept in the University,” which he noted can be replicated by other Colleges and Faculties also intending to pursue ISO9001certification. In preparation to engage in the rigorous process leading to application, several members of the University’s Administrative and Academic staff have been trained in an online sensitization session. The Dean shared that the Faculty intends to leverage its professional industry relationships as part of the preparation process, noting many of the University’s alumni have been ISO9001 certified and are willing to lend support to the efforts at UTech, Jamaica. During the launch, expert presentations were made by guest speaker Mrs. Navenia Wellington-Ford, Manager, of the Bureau of Standards parent company led - National Certification Body of Jamaica (NCBJ), who took the audience through a step-by-step implementation guideline of the stages that must be undertaken in readiness for submission for ISO9001: 2015 application; and by Mr. Sean Barrows, Director, ISO Project Office – Jamaica Customs Agency who detailed how his company engaged its entire organization in the process of obtaining the ISO9001: 2015 Quality Management System certification. Certificates of completion for participation in an ISO9001 Sensitization Session were presented by Mr. Jacob McLean, Managing Director, Kaizen Training and Management Consultants Limited, who conducted the session with Deans of the University’s Colleges and Faculties, as well as other members of administrative and academic staff. Faculty of Engineering and Computing Announces Plans to Achieve World Standard ISO9001:2015 Certification Professor Sean Thorpe, Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC) addresses the audience during the ISO9001:2015 Certification launch ceremony hosted by the Faculty on December 9, 2022, at the FENC Conference Room, Papine Campus. Dr. Garfield Young (left), Dean, Faculty of The Built Environment, accepts the certificate of completion of the ISO 9001 sensitization session from Mr. Jacob McLean, Managing Director, Kaizen Training and Management Consultants Limited. He also accepted certificates on behalf of other Deans of the University’s Colleges and Faculties.
7 October – December 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica UTech, Jamaica Hosts Microsoft Day, in Collaboration with Microsoft Inc. Dr. Peter Walker, Corporate Vice President, Commercial Software Engineering, Microsoft who was keynote speaker at Microsoft Day, fields a question from an audience member following his keynote address. University of Technology, Jamaica, through its Faculty of Engineering and Computing, in collaboration with Microsoft Inc., hosted Microsoft Day on October 14, 2022, at the Papine Campus. Microsoft Day provided an opportunity to showcase technical careers in Computing and Engineering, as well as the latest information and computing technologies. The day’s events comprised a keynote address, a panel discussion, a Microsoft Industry Experience virtual tour, a presentation on Microsoft Azure, as well as several presentations from experts at Microsoft. Professor Sean Thorpe, Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC), who moderated the event, noted that Microsoft Day “represents an exciting day of activities” for University students and staff, as well as students at the secondary level, to learn how to build their careers in ICT and computer engineering. He thanked Microsoft Inc., which he noted has enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship with UTech, Jamaica, expressing “Microsoft has helped the University, and in particular, the Faculty of Engineering and Computing to support the quality of the outcomes of our curriculum.” Sharing aspects of his personal academic and employment journey, keynote speaker, Dr. Peter Walker, Corporate Vice President, Commercial Software Engineering, Microsoft, and an alumnus of the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST) made a presentation titled “Disruption Now: Why It Is the Best Time to be an Engineer”. Observing that the world is quickly becoming software-centric, he noted that all branches of engineering, as well as other fields of study, are being impacted by the need for software and digitization. Dr. Walker counselled pre-college students who were interested in entering the field to: seek help with Mathematics; join or form a Computer Science Club; lobby for a robust internet connection at their school; invest in their own PC and seek out opportunities to learn programming outside of the classroom. He also advised college students to complement engineering with an entrepreneurial course; partner with colleagues to develop projects that showed business potential; invest in learning cloud computing and the tool chains that accompanied it, and to build and deploy solutions to real-world problems using technology. Ms. Yamile Bustamante, General Manager, Microsoft Caribbean, outlined in her presentation, the dual partnership between Microsoft and the University, noting that UTech, Jamaica is both a client and customer of Microsoft. She explained that the company is “working, supporting and enabling UTech, Jamaica to become the transformational leader in Jamaica,” adding that Microsoft is keen to build on the legacy of excellence at the institution. Other presentations were made by Mr. Androski Spicer, Strategic Science Technology Lead, Microsoft, and Ms. Oneika Cassanova, Senior Manager, Global Treasury and Financial Services, Microsoft. The event also included a career panel discussion with panellists Professor Thorpe, Dr. Walker, Ms. Bustamante, Mr. Spicer, Ms. Cassanova, Ms. Stacy Hines, Former President, Jamaica Computer Society, Mr. Christopher Reckord, CEO, tTech Limited, and Mr. Sheldon Powe, CEO, Innovate 10X.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | October – December 2022 8 Against the background of the current significant trend toward the integration of mobile apps in educational contexts, a research team through a project funded by the UTech, Jamaica Research Development Fund (RDF) administered by the School of Graduate Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship (SGSRE), have created a mobile app, ‘Experience Kingston’ which is now available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The goal of the project was to integrate immersive digital technology within the ambiance of conventional architectural history and theory, thus engaging current approaches in the Digital Humanities. This app showcases the Urban and Architectural Heritage of Downtown Kingston, Jamaica and phases of modernization. Additionally, the App project was designed to be a part of the classwork of the Caribbean School of Architecture (CSA) 4th year students, Class of 2022, and spanned two assessments. Students worked with the lecturers to source visual and textual material, to edit and upload to the dashboard for the app. The research team was led by Dr. Elizabeth Pigou-Dennis, Vice Dean, Faculty of the Built Environment working with the 4th Year Students, AS4, Class of 2022. The collaborating Technical Team was led by Mr. Shaun Ramsay, Lecturer, UTech, Jamaica Sapna Lab, School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT). The app proved to be a useful learning tool, with 86% of students who worked on the project reporting positive learning experience, regarding understanding Kingston’s history and potential. The content was relevant to reflection on the modernization of Kingston, within the module Modern Ideas and Architecture. CSA and SCIT Collaborate to Create Experience Kingston Mobile App Screenshots of the Create Experience Kingston Mobile App
9 October – December 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Students Awarded Scholarships Ms. Diamond Samuels (left), UTech, Jamaica 1st year Bachelor of Business Administration student accepts the certificate for the inaugural Merline Heholt Memorial Scholarship being presented by daughter of Merline Heholt, Mrs. Donna Leeds and her husband Mr. Tom Leeds. The scholarship was presented at a ceremony on October 28, 2022, at the Papine Campus. The scholarship, which is supported by the Heholt family in association with the Rita Marley Foundation, is valued at $20,000 USD and honours businesswoman and trailblazer Mrs. Merline Heholt. The four-year scholarship is awarded to a female student pursuing a career in business at UTech, Jamaica, and covers cost of tuition, books and boarding accommodations. Professor Colin Gyles, CD (right) Acting President, UTech, Jamaica and (from left) Ms. Lisa McDonald, who represented Head, Caribbean School of Nursing, Mrs. Anthonette Patterson-Bartley, Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, College of Health Sciences join in congratulating recipients of the Jamaica Nurses’ Association of Florida Scholarship, Theresa Williams (centre), 2nd year Midwifery student and Cadean Smith, (second right) 4th Year Nursing student, Caribbean School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences who display their scholarship cheques following a presentation ceremony on Wednesday, December 21, 2022, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. The scholarship recipients were selected based on their application for the scholarship and the subsequent evaluation and recommendation of the Caribbean School of Nursing. The applicants were also required to submit a recommendation from their community and to provide their academic transcripts. Inaugural Merline Heholt Memorial Scholarship Two Caribbean School of Nursing Students Receive Scholarships from the Jamaica Nurses’ Association of Florida Cont’d on page 12
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | October – December 2022 10 My best experience was meeting Mr. Pitter. He was a guardian angel; his motivation was strong and I really appreciate him. I am currently working as an external auditor but my next plan is to get an IT job in line with my major. My best experience was passing my subjects, not getting any C’s, being able to finish assignments on time and just meeting up with my friends after school. I’m looking further to studying and branching off into education. It was fun. I went to school with my sister, we started together and finished together, and college is rough but it’s worth it. I plan to get a job. The parties at UTech, Jamaica were extravagant. I plan to be an Electrical Technician or a proper Electrical Engineer. In a Vox Pop during the 2022 Graduation Ceremony, new UTech, Jamaica graduates were asked “What was your best experience at UTech, Jamaica and what is your plan moving forward?” Read on for their responses. I can say that it was a journey; it wasn’t easy sometimes but you have to pull through and continue despite all the obstacles. I am grateful for the opportunity, the journey, and the growth I have experienced. I would like to work in my field of study, whether in education or IT. The Master’s programme was indeed challenging but the best moment for me was having challenges in my research and eventually getting a new supervisor and then getting an A for the final research project. That was a very excellent moment for me. I felt proud of myself and I was happy to see how things turned around. I plan to continue in the field that I’m in and possibly look towards doing a PhD in the future, start a business and also look to the overseas market as well. I remember when I got my first stripe as a midwife. You have to pass all your modules in the 1st semester of that year and you get your stripe. So that was a really good thing for me and a great achievement because I worked so hard. As a midwife, I am waiting on my licence. I have done my licence examination to be a registered nurse to actually start working in hospitals. I am currently working in a hospital part-time doing something different but I’m planning to go into my field, delivering babies. STUDENT VOICES Sobrina Davis Bachelor of Education in TVET, Business and Computer Studies (Computing with Accounting), 1st Class Honours, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies Natasha Moore-King Bachelor of Business Administration in General Management – Marketing, College of Business and Management Vanessa Williams Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing – Economics, College of Business and Management Omari Bailey Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Computing Abigail Cleary Bachelor of Education in TVET, Business and Computer Studies (Computing with Accounting), Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies Shane Taylor Master of Science in Information Systems Management – Database Management, Faculty of Engineering and Computing Shantoya Simms Bachelor of Science in Midwifery, College of Health Sciences
11 October – December 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica STUDENT VOICES My best experience at UTech, Jamaica was definitely meeting new friends. I plan to further my studies and work in the field of nutrition. My best experience was before COVID-19 when we had in-person classes. Everything was a bit easier, there were less technological problems and my favourite class was Calculus for Social Sciences and that is where I had my favourite teacher. After UTech, Jamaica I’ll be working and I also have a company that will be restarted soon. My experience at UTech, Jamaica was a wonderful experience. I’m now at the Norman Manley Law School. My best experience was definitely graduation. I saw a lot of friendly, familiar faces. It’s a bittersweet moment because I made a lot of good friends over the four years and I’m just grateful that I finished well. I attained a firstclass honours degree in the Bachelor of Pharmacy Programme and today was my best day, to be honest. Next move is to complete my internship and get my licence next year, God’s willing. My best experience was meeting great friends. I plan to find a job in a laboratory because that is what I really like but currently I’m teaching and enjoying it. My best experience would be living on dorm because I got to experience a lot and I did a lot. I got to experience stuff like the different dorm activities, sports day, netball, football, and basketball. I did almost everything on dorm and it was really fun. I got to meet a lot of new people, I got to make a lot of lifelong friends. After this, I will start working and then look towards the Master’s degree. It’s pretty tough to say because pharmacy is a stressful programme. I guess meeting new people and making new friends, that would be my best experience at UTech, Jamaica. I’m a Pharmacy Intern so I plan to complete my internship and move abroad. Some of my best memories were on dorm: the camaraderie, the fellowship, the unity and the networking we got to do. I learnt a lot on dorm, lots of skills, and lots of socialization. I plan to move on to find a job in my field. Kedisha Satahoo Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition, College of Health Sciences Shantay Siddo Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, College of Business and Management Jacinth Temple Crawford Bachelor of Law, First Class Honours, Faculty of Law Ashleigh Barnett Bachelor of Pharmacy, First Class Honours, College of Health Sciences Moesha Delisser Bachelor of Science in Applied Science – Environmental Science, Faculty of Science and Sport Ralph Taylor Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Faculty of Engineering and Computing Jahmari Harris Bachelor of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences Richberg Reddie Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Computing
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | October – December 2022 12 Congratulations to the team of eight Bachelor of Arts in Communications Arts and Technology (BACAT) students and a School of Business Administration (SOBA) student who placed third in the Adult Category of the 2022 Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) FI WI Short Film Competition with their entry, ‘No Mek Yuh Right Han Kno Weh Yuh Right Han a Do’. The short film was developed in Communication Studio 4, with guidance from BACAT lecturer Mr. Joshua Paul. Congratulations to: • Donnielle Robe (writer, actress and public relations officer for the film) • Terry-Ann Anderson (script editor and actress) • Suen Chang (producer and actress) • Tiana Gordon- (director) • Jordon Newman (lighting and sound designer) • David Fuller (assistant director and boom operator) • Tyrique Williams (actor) • Shantrese Brown (actress) • Chevauna McKnight from SOBA (actress) The film can be viewed on you tube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0y_mfueMVtw&t=56s Ms. Rollesha Laing, final year BACAT student is presented with a certificate for the Jamar Thelwell Memorial Scholarship, valued at $300,000, by Mr. Steadman Noble, brother of the late Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies (FELS) Lecturer Jamar Thelwell. Occasion was the presentation ceremony of the scholarship on October 25, 2022, at the Shared Facilities Building, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Cont’d from page 9...Students Awarded Scholarships BACAT Student Awarded 2nd Annual Jamar Thelwell Memorial Scholarship BACAT Students Shine at JCDC Short Film Competition UTech, Jamaica final year Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts and Technology (BACAT) student Rollesha Laing has been awarded the 2nd Annual Jamar Thelwell Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship, valued at $300,000, was presented to Ms. Laing, who is majoring in Public Relations. Ms. Rushana Jarrett, Administrative Support, FELS, who chaired the ceremony, detailed that the scholarship recipient has had to seek part-time employment following financial difficulties encountered by her mother, who is her main source of financing. Despite her challenging circumstances, Ms. Laing attained a GPA of 3.82 and is also a member of the Future Marketers Association, serving as an Assistant Director of Public Relations during the Academic Year 2020/2021. The scholarship, which honours late Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies (FELS) Lecturer Jamar Thelwell, was presented on the anniversary of his birthday, October 25, 2022. An avid and committed educator in Audio, Video and Animation at University of Technology, Jamaica, Mr. Thelwell passed away on May 7, 2020, following a period of illness. The occasion was shared with friends, family and members of the Faculty who paid homage to the memory of Mr. Thelwell’s enduring impact on the University Community. Mr. Melville Cooke, Programme Director, BACAT outlined the criteria on which candidates for the scholarship were judged. Noting that the selection process was “a collaboration between Jamar’s family members, and UTech, Jamaica academic and administrative staff”, he elaborated that awardees were assessed on academic performance, financial need, co-curricular involvement and their interview performances. Applicants were also judged on their intention to use the skills developed in the BACAT programme for community and national development. During the ceremony, a tuition grant of $100,000 was also presented to 1st year BACAT student Kartica Carter, whose performance at the secondary level impressed the selection panel. 3rd year BACAT student Kemesha Johnson, who joined the BACAT programme at the urging of Mr. Thelwell received a grant of $50,000, while Ashleigh Cameron, 2nd year BACAT, received a laptop.
13 October – December 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica The College of Health Sciences (COHS), UTech, Jamaica celebrated high achievers at its annual awards ceremony held on October 27, 2022 at the Shared Facilities Building, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Awards were presented to students from the faculty’s three Schools - the School of Pharmacy, School of Allied Health and Wellness and the Caribbean School of Nursing in recognition of academic excellence during the Academic Years 2018/19, 2019/20 and 2020/21. The ceremony, themed ‘Excellence Through Adversity’, was chaired by Dr. Sean Moncrieffe, Senior Lecturer, and Mrs. Trina Muir-Soutar, Lecturer, COHS. In his greeting to awardees, students and staff at the ceremony, Professor Colin Gyles, CD, Acting President, offered hearty congratulations to the high achievers, expressing “with each new success, even more is expected and demanded of you; so, your commitment to excellence should never end.” Noting that the ceremony’s theme drew attention to the challenges and disruptions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, he expressed that it also “appropriately underscores and celebrates the resilience of both our students, faculty and staff who have weathered the storms along the journey.” Encouraging awardees to “make excellence your habit”, Professor Gyles noted the success of UTech, Jamaica’s College of Health Sciences graduates, who are “making their mark in the public and private sectors of Jamaica, the Caribbean region and beyond.” The Acting President also commended members of faculty and staff in the College, led by Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean “who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to guiding our students towards high academic achievement.” In her message to awardees, Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, COHS congratulated the high achievers, stating that, “as you move forward, stay focused and committed, remain hungry for excellence; do not limit yourself and never give up.” Guest speaker was Dr. Herbert Gayle, Social Anthropologist, The University of the West Indies, Mona. College of Health Sciences Celebrates High Achievers at Annual Awards Ceremony Dr. Adella Campbell (right), Dean, College of Health Sciences (COHS) presents The Dr. Adella Campbell Award for Best All-Round Student to Caribbean School of Nursing (CSON) student Ms. Shemikia Crawford at the College’s Annual Awards Ceremony held on October 27, 2022, at the Shared Facilities Building, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Dr. Sonia Richards-Malcolm, Vice Dean, COHS presents The Dr. Sonia Richards-Malcolm Award for Best Performance in Immunohaematology to Mr. Juan McIntosh, student, School of Allied Health and Wellness. Dr. Sean Moncrieffe (left), Senior Lecturer, COHS presents The Dr. Sean Moncrieffe Award for Best AllRound Student in the Bachelor of Pharmacy Programme to Glendon Lewis. Student Ms. Trisha Goodlitt (left) receives the Caribbean School of Nursing (Montego Bay Campus) Award for Clinical Excellence from Mrs. Anthonette PattersonBartley, Acting Head, CSON. Pictorial Highlights School of Allied Health and Wellness School of Pharmacy Caribbean School of Nursing (CSON)
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | October – December 2022 14 New book off the UTech, Jamaica Press by educator, prolific researcher and writer, Professor Paul Golding, DBA, has brought sharp focus to the myriad local and global socio-economic events occurring during the period of the first 21 years of the 21st century, (2000 - 2021) documented from his perspective as a Jamaican observer. The book was unveiled at a special launch ceremony on November 24, 2022, at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Titled “The First 21 Years of the 21st Century: Observations from Jamaica,” the author told the gathering of academics, administrators, students, representatives of civil society groups, the Deaf community and members of his family and friends in attendance at the launch ceremony, that his motivation to pen the book stemmed from a perceived need to document and learn from our own history. “These are issues that occurred in the first 21 years of the 21st century and we should be able to look back at it and use it as a means of going forward because the past is in the present, it is not separate,” Professor Golding asserted. Guest speaker, Mr. Gary Allen, Managing Director, RJR/Gleaner Communications Group saluted Professor Golding on the “academic discipline, current affairs diligence and the contextual brilliance that has been achieved in this work,” adding that it is “a work to be proud of nationally, regionally, academically because it is one for the ages.” He described the book as “a compact but detailed, refreshing and exciting contextual review of the major developments, locally, regionally and globally for the first 21 years of the 21st century.” Noting that he had the pleasure of reviewing the book’s manuscript at the author’s request, Mr. Allen lauded the work for its public value in providing information on various sectors of our society looking at major news, current affairs, media activities, the changes and developments in ICT, telecommunications, political and economic events, and how these have impacted different aspects of life and the way we now operate or no longer do. Manager of the UTech, Jamaica Press, Dr. Paul Ivey who is also Associate Vice President, School of Graduate Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship in his overview, explained that the University of Technology, Jamaica, Press, which was launched in February 2018 as a unit under the Office of the President, has been established “to promote research and publications primarily among members of the University Community.” The Press is intended to provide an avenue for academic staff and other members of the University Community to publish the results of their research, and to produce works that will bring together established as well as new knowledge. Since its inception, the UTech, Jamaica Press has published nine books which Dr. Ivey noted represents “a solid body of scholarship coming out of our university and befitting the standing of our institution.” Dr. Ivey revealed that six new titles by authors from within the University are currently under consideration by the Press and encouraged persons to purchase copies of the published books which are available in paperback at Amazon.com and in electronic format on BookFusion. UTech, Jamaica Press Unveils New Book: “The First 21 Years of the 21st Century: Observations from Jamaica” by Professor Paul Golding L-R: Participating in the unveiling of a replica of the cover of the book, “The First 21 Years of the 21st Century: Observations from Jamaica” by author Professor Paul Golding (left), Professor of Management and Information Systems, College of Business and Management, UTech, Jamaica, Dr. Paul Ivey, Associate Vice President, School of Graduate Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship, Editor, Ms. Jennifer Cheesman and Professor Golding’s son, Daniel at the ceremony for the launch of the book on November 24, 2022, at the Shared Facilities Building, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Prof. Paul Golding presents a copy of his book to Miss Lori Henry (left) and Mrs. Jacqueline Henry daughter and wife respectively of the late Mr. Martin Henry, (whom he shared was one of mentors in the writing process). Below Professor Golding presents a copy of his book to Mr. Gary Allen Managing Director, RJR/Gleaner Communications Group.
15 October – December 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica RESEARCH BRIEFS Encyclopedia of Tourism Management 7 Marketing Entries Ms. Elecia Bethune, Lecturer in the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, College of Business and Management co-authored an entry titled “Real Time Response.” Bethune, E., Buhalis, D., & Miles, L. (2022). Real Time Response. Encyclopedia of Tourism Management and Marketing (pp.627-629). Edward Elgar Publishing. Dr. Gaunette Sinclair-Maragh, Associate Professor and Associate Dean, School of Advanced Management, College of Business and Management authored an entry titled “Caribbean Destination.” Sinclair-Maragh, G. (2022). Caribbean Destination. Encyclopedia of Tourism Management and Marketing (pp. 424-427). Edward Elgar Publishing. COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in the Jamaican Populace: Prevalence and Associated Factors Dr. Donna-Marie Wynter-Adams (left), Head, School, Caribbean School of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Science and Sport and Dr. Peta-Gaye Thomas Brown, Lecturer, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences have co-authored the journal article titled “COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in the Jamaican Populace: Prevalence and Associated Factors”. Drs. Wynter-Adams and Thomas-Brown presented results from this study on COVID vaccine hesitancy at the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) 66th Annual Health Research Conference on September 15, 2022.Marketing (pp. 424-427). Edward Elgar Publishing. Evaluating Health Inequality in Five Caribbean Basin Countries Using EQ-5D-5L Professor Girjanauth Boodraj, retired and part-time Lecturer, College of Business and Management coauthored the article titled “Evaluating Health Inequality in Five Caribbean Basin Countries Using EQ-5D5L” in the Applied Health Economics and Health Policy, published August 2022.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | October – December 2022 16 SENIOR EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENT Vice President & Chief Human Resource Officer Mrs. Simone McGregor Jackson Donation of Stretcher from AIDS Healthcare Foundation of Jamaica Officers of the University of Technology, Jamaica receive documentation for the donation of a medical stretcher to the UTech, Jamaica Medical Centre from the AIDS Healthcare Foundation of Jamaica (AHF Ja.) at a presentation on December 19, 2022, at the University’s Papine Campus. From left are Mrs. Alexia Lamonth-Edwards, Community Prevention, Testing and Outreach Officer, AHF Ja., Ms. Takisha Sten-Barnes, Operations Manager, AHF Ja., Ms. Natasha Pusey, Nurse, UTech, Jamaica Medical Centre and Mrs. Heather White, Health Services Administrator, UTech, Jamaica. The stretcher, valued at over $161,000.00 replaces a worn twenty-year old model and will be used in general patient care at the University’s Medical Centre. The donation was facilitated through assistance from Mrs. Simone McGregor Jackson, Vice President and Chief Human Resource Officer. University of Technology, Jamaica welcomed new Vice President and Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO) Mrs. Simone McGregor Jackson and introduced her to the University Community at a town hall meeting hosted via Zoom on Monday, October 10, 2022. Mrs. Simone McGregor Jackson’s appointment to the post by the University Council’s Appointments and Promotions Committee took effect on Monday, October 3, 2022.
17 October – December 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Mathematics brilliance was on display at the exciting finish of the 4th Annual UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Quiz Competition which saw both finalist student teams from Herbert Morrison Technical High School and St. Jago High, tying at 12 points after regulation match time. But it was the brilliant response to the logicbased question, “What is the contrapositive for the statement: if water is frozen, then its temperature is below zero degrees Celsius?” answered correctly: “its temperature is not below zero degrees Celsius, then it is not frozen,” by Jemoy Jarrett of Herbert Morrison Technical High, that pipped the school’s win over St. Jago High in the knock out tie-breaker round played at the University of Technology, Jamaica Papine Campus on December 15, 2022. The 30-minute final match was played in three thrilling ‘Schools-Challenge’ style rounds with each team answering questions from the CSEC and CAPE Level 1 and 2 Mathematics curricula posed by Quiz Master, Ms Judith DeLisser, Lecturer, School of Mathematics and Statistics (SOMAS), Faculty of Science and Sport, UTech, Jamaica. Both teams impressed with their quick responses, showing competency in such areas as trigonometry, complex Professor Colin Gyles (centre) presents the winner’s trophy to Kaila Grant, team captain, Herbert Morrison Technical High School whose team emerged winner of the 4th Annual UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Quiz Competition at the final match played on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Team members and their teachers from left (front row) are Alyssa Dobson, Crystalee Gardner (Mathematics Coach), Jayden Brown, Ken-Garfield Douglas and (L-R, back row), Jehosha Brown, (Head, Mathematics Department), Herbert Morrison Technical High School and students Daniel Neil and Jemoy Jarrett. Herbert Morrison Technical High School Wins 4th Annual UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Competition Professor Colin Gyles, (right) Acting President, University of Technology, Jamaica presents St. Jago High School students, first runner up winners in the 4th Annual UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Quiz Competition with their trophy following the finals of the Competition on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. From left are Dshawan Dunwell, Linton Cornwall, (team captain) and Johmoi Blake. Cont’d on page 18
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | October – December 2022 18 Cont’d from page 17...Herbert Morrison Technical High School Wins 4th Annual UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Competition numbers, functions, probability, polynomials, logic and differential equations. The three top schools received trophies, cash prizes and gifts in kind, provided through the support of sponsors CIBC First Caribbean International Bank, Bryan Studios Ltd, H& L Ultimate Touch Promotion and Bureau of Standards Jamaica. All participating students received a Certificate of Participation. The 4th UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Quiz Competition, which had its inaugural staging in 2017 and has been on hiatus for the past two years owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, began with the preliminary round comprising nine high schools from across Jamaica on November 26, 2022. The 2022 competing schools were Calabar High, Merl Grove High School, Clarendon College, St. George’s College, Bishop Gibson High School (for Girls), Belair High School, Alpha Academy, St. Jago High School and Herbert Morrison Technical High. Second runner up place was awarded to St. George’s College, while Merl Grove High School rounded out the top four schools. Acting President, UTech, Jamaica, Professor Colin Gyles in his welcome remarks noted that “The UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Quiz Competition is part of the University’s thrust to promote and develop awareness of Mathematics as a tool for problem solving across all disciplines,” adding that, “the Competition is also intended to generate a cultural change and love for Mathematics in Jamaica and to foster an acceptance of Mathematics as a way of life.” Noting that “winning is an attitude of excellence,” the Acting President congratulated all finalists and all participating schools, inviting the students in the near future to apply to UTech, Jamaica to pursue tertiary studies. “There is a place for you here whether in the Faculty of Science and Sport or any of our other 7 Colleges and Faculties covering a wide range of disciplines in Science, Engineering, Computing, Law, Architecture, Business, Dentistry, the Humanities, and other areas,” Professor Gyles stated. Mrs. Ave Maria McIntosh, Head, School of Mathematics and Statistics in giving a background to the Mathematics Quiz Competition, indicated that it was conceptualized from an idea proposed by former President, Professor Stephen Vasciannie, as part of the University’s thrust to increase interest and critical thinking skills in Mathematics to promote the importance and development of the subject as a tool for problem solving across disciplines. Mrs. McIntosh also noted that “we also seek to identify gifted students and nurture them, thus promoting national development,” adding that “from this we aim to create Mathematics ambassadors who will spread the love for Mathematics”, creating a Mathematics culture needed for many areas of a country’s development. The inaugural UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Quiz Competition was won by Glenmuir High School in 2017 while Knox College earned the win in both 2018 and 2019. The Ministry of Education and Youth reiterated its endorsement of the UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Competition in greetings brought by Mrs. Camae Johnson-Burrell, Regional Mathematics Coordinator, Region 6 who spoke on behalf of National Mathematics Coordinator, Dr. Tameka Benjamin. She congratulated the University on the Mathematics Quiz Competition initiative, noting its alignment with the the Ministry’s aim to find ways to make Mathematics more “fun, attractive, and less intimidating” especially for students and the wider population of Jamaica, underscoring the subject’s importance as a life skill and its importance for national development. Sponsorship remarks were received from Mrs. Phillipa O-Connor Bennet, Head, Technical Regulations Unit, Bureau of Standards, Jamaica, Mr. Derrick Upfield, Senior Sales Executive, H&L Ultimate Touch Promotions Limited and Ms. Lisa Bryan, Sales and Customer Service Experience Manager, Bryan Studios Ltd. Serving as competition judges were Dr. Binil Sebastian and Mr Dennis Xavier, School of Mathematics and Statistics, FOSS. Timekeeper was Mrs. Tessy Joy, while scorekeepers were Mr. Biju Tom Manianghattu and Mr. Dujon Dunn, SOMAS. Dr. Andrew Lamm (right) Vice-Dean, Faculty of Science and Sport presents the third-place winners trophy to Mikhai Sillpatt from St. George’s High School at the finals of the UTech, Jamaica Mathematics Quiz Competition, December 15, 2022 at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Pictured (l-R, back row) are Jaime Leigh Warren, Danielle White (Mathematics Teacher), Ashani Howard, Raquan Pusey and Gabriella Scott (front row). Mrs. Ave Marie McIntosh, Head, School of Mathematics and Statistics (SOMAS), Faculty of Science and Sport. Mrs. Camae Johnson-Burrell, Regional Mathematics Coordinator, Region 6, Ministry of Education and Youth.
19 October – December 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Forty-four Mustard Seed Communities caregivers graduated from a Long Distance Learning training course offered by the University of Technology, Jamaica’s College of Health Sciences on December 6, 2022, at a ceremony hosted at the Shared Facilities Building, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. The Long Distance Learning course, facilitated through the UTech, Jamaica Mustard Seed Communities Centre, was offered during the summer of 2021 and 2022, and focused on caring for children with exceptionalities. Mrs. Carol Hutchinson, Supervisor, UTech Jamaica Mustard Seed Communities Centre, noted that the course was offered to caregivers from the Mustard Seed Communities who work with persons living with disabilities, as well as those diagnosed with HIV/Aids and pregnant teens. She outlined that the course objectives included practical aspects, such as identifying and employing play for children with disabilities, preparation of balanced meals, using appropriate meal planning techniques, as well as theoretical aspects, including identifying the basic rights of citizens, particularly those persons living with disabilities, and evaluation of the different cycles of change, learning theories, and the dynamic role of change agents. The course also included introduction to ICT concepts, patient record management techniques and tools and First Aid training. “The Long Distance Learning training programme provides the caregivers with the various skills and knowledge added to their practical nursing certification, and enables them to carry out their duties and responsibilities in a more effective way,” she expressed. Dr. Sonia Richards-Malcolm, Vice Dean, College of Health Sciences, who brought greetings on behalf of Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, COHS, pointed to the theme of the graduation “Embracing the Disabilities Act towards Inclusion” as apt, noting that the long-distance training course forms part of the University’s thrust to foster inclusion in society. She congratulated the College of Health Sciences’ team for their dedication in “successfully guiding” the caregivers during the training course. Guest speaker was Mrs. Therrain Davis, Programme Director, Child and Adolescent Development, COHS who urged caregivers to engage in self-care to safeguard their health, even as they devote themselves to caring for others.” Greetings were also received from Monsignor Gregory Ramkissoon, Founder, Mustard Seed Communities, Mrs. Darcy Tulloch-Williams, Executive Director, Mustard Seed Communities and Dr. Cheryl Hettman, Independent Nurse, Educator and Consultant. Mrs. Andrea Hardware, Lecturer, Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences, also paid tribute to Ms. Ivy Lemonius, retired Lecturer, COHS. Mrs. Shaness Cole, who responded on behalf of the caregivers, thanked the University for providing the opportunity for further training and urged her fellow graduates to embrace their new knowledge in the execution of their duties. Forty-four Mustard Seed Communities Caregivers Graduate from UTech, Jamaica Long Distance Learning Training Course Graduates of the UTech, Jamaica Long Distance Learning Training Course during their graduation on December 6, 2022 at the Shared Facilities Building, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Mrs. Carol Hutchinson, Supervisor, UTech Jamaica Mustard Seed Communities Centre Miss Denenne Williams (right), caregiver from the Mustard Seed Communities, presents a token to Mrs. Ivy Limonius, retired UTech, Jamaica lecturer for her contribution to the caregivers’ training programme offered by the College of Health Sciences.
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